Does My Dog Need Antioxidants
Understanding Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress in Dogs
Have you heard of *free radicals* or *oxidative stress* and wondered if it's just scientific jargon? It’s not—and it affects both humans and pets alike. In fact, it could be behind many of your dog’s health issues. Let’s break it down.
What Are Free Radicals?
Free radicals are unstable atoms that can damage cells, leading to what’s known as oxidative stress. This oxidative stress contributes to:
- Aging
- Illnesses, including cancer
- Cellular damage, which can lead to diseases
Visible signs of oxidative stress might include wrinkled skin or even more serious damage to internal cells, leading to “dis-ease” in the body.
How Do Antioxidants Help?
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals before they can damage healthy cells, reducing oxidative stress and protecting against DNA damage. They also help your dog’s immune system fend off viruses and bacteria.
One key point: the more free radicals your dog’s body creates, the more antioxidants they need. Even puppies can have antioxidant deficiencies, especially if their diet or environment has been less than ideal. For instance:
- Rescue dogs often face long-term poor nutrition or exposure to harsh chemicals.
- High-performance dogs (like athletes or working dogs) experience elevated oxidative stress levels.
Studies show that dogs fed antioxidant-rich diets have a lower incidence of disease, better overall health, and even longer life spans. These diets also support brain health as your dog ages. And let's be honest—who doesn't want that for their furry friend?
How to Give Your Dog Antioxidants
**Whole Foods & Supplements!*
Unfortunately, many commercial dog foods—even high-quality ones—use synthetic vitamins and minerals. These synthetics provide minimal nutrition. The minimum nutrient requirements set by commercial standards are just that: the bare minimum.
Free radical damage from oxidative stress plays a major role in diseases such as cancer, dementia, and heart disease. This is why I’m a huge fan of supplements rich in high-ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) berries. It’s something I give my dogs regularly, and I encourage you to consider it for yours too!
Top Antioxidant-Rich Berries for Dogs
Adding berries to your dog’s diet is an easy and natural way to boost their antioxidant intake. Here are some top options:
- **Wolfberry**: ORAC ~30,000
- **Goji berry**: ORAC ~25,000
- **Elderberry**: ORAC ~15,000
- **Blackberry**: ORAC ~5,300
- **Blueberry**: ORAC ~2,400
- **Strawberry**: ORAC ~1,540
- **Raspberry**: ORAC ~1,220
If your dog is recovering from an illness or simply aging, antioxidants should be part of their wellness plan. But go slow! Introduce antioxidant-rich foods like berries gradually. They’re packed with fiber and natural sugars, so it may make sense to use supplements if your dog needs higher amounts without extra calories or sugar.
Top 10 Antioxidants for Dogs
Here are 10 powerful antioxidants that can benefit your dog’s health:
1. **Vitamin E** – Supports immune function and skin health while neutralizing free radicals.
2. **Vitamin C** – While dogs produce their own, supplementation can help fight oxidative stress, especially in aging or sick dogs.
3. **Beta-Carotene** – A precursor to Vitamin A, essential for vision, skin health, and immune support.
4. **Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)** – A natural antioxidant that boosts heart health and energy production.
5. **Curcumin** – A powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, great for joint health and fighting free radicals.
6. **Green Tea Extract** – Rich in catechins like EGCG, offering antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer benefits.
7. **Purple C60** – A potent antioxidant derived from Carbon 60.
8. **Omega-3 Fatty Acids** – Found in fish oil, flaxseed, and chia seeds, they reduce inflammation, support brain health, and protect the heart.
9. **Glutathione** – Produced by the liver, this antioxidant detoxifies and shields cells from oxidative damage.
10. **Quercetin** – Known as “nature’s Benadryl,” it’s excellent for reducing inflammation, allergies, and oxidative stress.
And Dont’ forget the Ningix
Boost Your Dog’s Health with Antioxidants
Incorporating antioxidants into your dog’s diet—whether through whole foods or supplements—can improve their overall health and longevity. Not sure where to start? I can help you integrate these antioxidants in the right amounts for your dog’s unique needs. If your dog is battling specific health concerns, let’s work together to create a customized plan.
Feel free to reach out for guidance on the best antioxidant plan for your pet!
Did you know:
There are many other foods with high orac scores — including some herbs and spices. Even Essential oils have ORAC scores and antioxidant properties.
Did you it's been shown that when supplements like this are mixed with essential oils or other beneficial supplements -- they can actually work even better due to something called bioavailability?
See Pubmed Article about Blueberries supporting sled dogs oxidative stress: Blueberries